UM Digos Brings Home Recognitions from BIGKIS 2024

As the regional representative of Region XI to the different competitions organized by the Commission on Higher Education, UM Digos College (UMDC) brought two prestigious awards during the BIGKIS 2024: 1st Philippine Higher Education Conference on Indigenous People held on July 4 – 5, 2024 at the Bukidnon State University. These awards are the 2 nd Runner Up for the Creative Contemporary Dance Competition and Champion for the Vocal Solo Competition.

The UM Digos Performing Arts Guild of Students (UMDC – PAGS) captivated the attention of the participants as they shared a heart-melting creative dance piece that highlighted the context of the marginalization of the indigenous peoples in the Philippines, earning them the 2 nd Runner Up position. The performing group was composed of students, namely: Angel Bacus, Gian Cris Cortez, Cornelis Acebedo, Marlyn Ann Ginoy, Clarice Joy Loyola, Kristine Miguel, Reanith Sedimo, Edrian Joseph N. Nemaria, Jaynel C. Saquido, and Yvon Jane Padillo and is moderated by Ms. Nova Bonna M. Tribunalo.

Meanwhile, using “We are One,” composed by CHED Commissioner Ronald L. Adamat, as a contest piece, Mr. Alex Sugue, a student from the Secondary Education Program, conveyed, through his melodious rendition, the true power of unity amidst diversity and differences and its good forces in striving for peace for all. Mr. Sugue was hailed as the Champion.

The event was strongly supported by the UM Digos Peace Center, which was officially launched last 2023 and manifests to exist as a beacon of hope and peace in the local community. Also, UM Digos is recognized as one of the Centers for Human Rights Education (CHRE) in the country and is accredited by the Commission on Human Rights.

The BIGKIS (Building Indigenous Knowledge for Inclusivity and Sustainability) is an initiative by the Commission on Higher Education that aims to deepen understanding and appreciation of Indigenous People`s culture within Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) across the Philippines. This year is the inaugural year of the initiative organized by the Commission on Higher Education.